Fort Lupton’s Elizabeth Holbrook, 12, earned 4th place runner-up in the Pre-Teen division as the Colorado representative to the National American Miss State Pageant in Arizona.
“The thing I love most about National American Miss is the way I gained so much confidence. I also love the opportunities NAM offers and the great community; everyone is so supportive and always wants the best for you,” Holbrook said. “I am so grateful for the friends I made. I am also so grateful to Melissa Rickman for the inspiration to get into pageants; it has helped me on this journey.”
Jessica, Elizabeth’s mom, said it was her second time competing in a National American Miss event, and she made a strong impression.
“Alongside the required competitions, she entered several optional categories, including Talent, Actress, Casual Wear Modeling, and Heart of Service. Her hard work paid off — Elizabeth finished as the 4th runner up in the Pre-Teen division for Colorado,” Jessica Holbrook said.
Jessica said one of Elizabeth’s most impressive accomplishments was being awarded first place in the ‘Heart of Service’ competition.
“Over the last three years, Elizabeth has logged more than 244 hours of volunteer service, earning her top honors for her dedication to helping others,” Jessica said. Elizabeth also placed as first runner-up in both the Talent and Best Resume categories and took second runner-up for Actress and Casual Wear Modeling.
Jessica mentioned that it took Elizabeth significant time and preparation to enter the pageant. Elizabeth raised funds for the trip through community support and a creative ‘Egg My Yard’ fundraiser, during which families could purchase pre-filled Easter eggs to be hidden in their yards the night before the holiday.
“Her campaign was successful and helped cover the costs associated with the competition,” Jessica said.
Elizabeth wasn’t alone on this journey. Jessica said she had strong support from her family, including her parents, grandma, aunt and uncle, who backed her throughout the weekend.
“Throughout two and a half days, Elizabeth wore six different outfits, had countless hair and makeup changes, and shared plenty of laughs, nerves, and joy with her fellow contestants,” Jessica said.
Jessica said that the pageant was a wonderful experience and created lasting memories for Elizabeth, including receiving trophies, forming friendships, and earning a Presidential Scholarship to Midland University in Nebraska.
“Outside of pageants, Elizabeth remains deeply involved in her community. She’s a committed member of the Fort Lupton Girl Scouts, currently working toward the Silver Award with her troop—one of the three highest honors a Girl Scout can earn. She also serves as the historian for Fort Lupton’s Tailtwisters 4-H club and enjoys the wide range of activities the organization offers,” Jessica said.
Jessica said that earlier this year, Elizabeth even appeared live on CBS for an interview about her experience in the Girls in Broadcasting program, demonstrating that her confidence and leadership extend well beyond the stage.